get a bunch of old wrenches, gears, and other cool-looking parts, have them powdercoated with whatever colors you like, and then screw them to the posts in an attractive way.
Is there any damage around the eyes or the mouth and nose areas? Any crumbling stuffing coming out from around the edges of the wood backing? Also, how far does that project from the wall and what is the height and width of the back of the mount. I'd probably make you an offer of 750 for that...